Algeria, Nigeria and Niger agree gas pipeline deal

Algeria, Nigeria, and Niger have signed a memorandum of understanding to build a gas pipeline across the Sahara.

Algerian Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab told reporters after the ceremony "that the three countries will continue talks to undertake the project as soon as possible".

The pipeline linking Nigeria to Algeria through Niger would have the capacity to supply 30 billion cubic metres of gas to Europe, in desperate need to diversify its gas supply in light of Russian action following the invasion of Ukraine.

The cost to build the 4,000km (2,500 mile-) pipeline is estimated at $13bn (£10.7bn).

An earlier agreement had been signed in 2009 for the construction of the pipeline but discussions then stalled.

This article originally appeared in BBC News

Photo: BBC